23A256T-I/ST

Memory IC Overview

The Microchip Technology 23A256T-I/ST is a 256 Kbit Serial SRAM device organized as 32,768 x 8 bits. It interfaces via a SPI-compatible serial bus with SCK, SI, SO, and CS pins. The supply voltage range is 1.5 V to 1.95 V. Maximum clock frequency reaches 20 MHz at 1.8 V. Read current is 3 mA at 1 MHz. Standby current is 4 µA maximum at +85°C. Operating temperature spans -40°C to +85°C. It uses an 8-lead TSSOP package.

Memory IC Feature Summary

• Supports flexible operating modes including byte read/write, page mode for 32-byte pages, and sequential mode for continuous array access.
• Includes a HOLD pin that suspends communication without resetting the sequence, allowing host processors to service higher priority interrupts.

Memory IC Applications

• Data logging in industrial monitoring systems
• Configuration storage for microcontroller-based devices
• Buffer memory for high-speed data acquisition

Memory IC Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'I/ST' confirms the Industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) and Tape & Reel packaging format. Confirm the voltage variant matches the 1.5 V to 1.95 V requirement, as the 23K256 series operates at different voltages. Ensure the datasheet revision aligns with current manufacturing specifications.

Memory IC Selection Notes

Select this component when low-voltage operation between 1.5 V and 1.95 V is required. Choose over the 23K256 variant if the system voltage does not support the 2.7 V to 3.6 V range. Consider the HOLD pin functionality if interrupt handling requires pausing serial transactions without data loss or retransmission overhead.

Memory IC Part Context

This part belongs to the 23X256 family of 256-Kbit Serial SRAMs from Microchip Technology. It shares architectural similarities with the 23K256 but differs primarily in supply voltage requirements. The family utilizes standard SPI protocols for compatibility with various microcontroller families, including PIC® devices.

Memory IC Replacement Considerations

The 23K256T-I/ST is a functional substitute within the same family but requires a supply voltage of 2.7 V to 3.6 V instead of 1.5 V to 1.95 V. Verify voltage compatibility before substitution.

Memory IC FAQ

How does the HOLD pin function during serial communication?

The HOLD pin allows the user to pause serial communication by pulling it low while SCK is low. This places inputs and outputs in a high-impedance state, ignoring transitions until the pin is released, without resetting the internal address pointer.

What are the available operating modes for the 23A256?

The device supports Byte mode (single byte access), Page mode (access limited to a 32-byte page with automatic wrapping), and Sequential mode (continuous access across page boundaries with address rollover).